Colombian defender Carlos Cuesta misses World Cup 2026 after muscle fatigue

Colombian centre‑back Carlos Cuesta, 27, explained that an accumulation of minutes and muscle fatigue while playing for Vasco da Gama in Brazil forced him to take a break, leading to his exclusion from Colombia’s final squad for the 2026 FIFA World Cup. In an interview with Globo Esporte he said the body needed rest after a demanding first half of the year, and that the physical strain reduced his performance, preventing his selection by coach Néstor Lorenzo.

Cuesta has since recovered, regaining a starting role at Vasco da Gama in the Copa Sudamericana and the Brasileirão. He expressed confidence in his fitness and hopes to rebuild form and contribute to his club and future national‑team opportunities.